Researchers Develop Multi-Source Remote Sensing Approach to Enhance Spodumene Identification

A study led by Prof. ZHANG Nannan from the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, has developed an innovative method for identifying spodumene, a crucial lithium-bearing mineral, through the use of a multi-source remote-sensing index cube. Their work was published in the International Journal of Digital Earth.

The researchers use data collected from various satellites, including SDGSAT-1, ASTER, Landsat 8, and GF-5, to construct the comprehensive index cube. This cutting-edge approach integrates thermal infrared, visible near-infrared, and shortwave infrared data, significantly enhancing the accuracy of spodumene identification.

Employing a hybrid deep-learning model, the study achieved an impressive accuracy rate of 98% in identifying spodumene within the 509 pegmatite-type lithium deposits located in Dahongliutan, Xinjiang, China. This advanced method markedly improves the precision of lithium resource identification in high-altitude and deeply eroded regions.

"This framework provides a new technical method for the remote sensing exploration of pegmatite-type lithium deposits," said LI Siyuan first author of the study.

This study offers a powerful tool for lithium resource exploration in challenging and rugged terrains, contributing to global clean energy transitions and advancing sustainable development goals.

Article link: https://doi.org/10.1080/17538947.2024.2448583

Contact

LONG Huaping

Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography

E-mail: longhp@ms.xjb.ac.cn

Web: http://english.egi.cas.cn